Leif Erikson Day, 2004

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Part IV

The President

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Proclamation 7828--Leif Erikson Day, 2004

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 7828 of October 7, 2004

Leif Erikson Day, 2004

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

More than 1,000 years ago, Leif Erikson led his crew on
a journey across the Atlantic, becoming the first
European known to have set foot on North American soil.
Every October, we honor this courageous Viking
explorer, his historic voyage, and the rich heritage of
Nordic Americans.

Immigrants from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and
Sweden and their descendants have made great
contributions to our Nation in the fields of business,
politics, the arts, education, agriculture, and other
areas. Nordic Americans have also made a significant
mark on our country's society and culture, and have
helped to establish and define America's most cherished
principles. Their energy and spirit have inspired
others, and their courage, skill, and determination
have played an important role in the development of our
country. Today, millions of people in the United States
trace their origins to these Nordic countries, and
their contributions to America make our country
stronger and better.

On this day, we also recognize our longstanding ties to
these nations that were home to the ancestors of many
Americans. Together, we continue to work to advance
prosperity, expand freedom, and increase stability and
security in Europe and elsewhere in the world.

To honor Leif Erikson, the courageous son of Iceland
and grandson of Norway, and to celebrate our citizens
of Nordic-American heritage, the Congress, by joint
resolution (Public Law 88-566) approved on September 2,
1964, has authorized and requested the President to
proclaim October 9 of each year as ``Leif Erikson
Day.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 9,
2004, as Leif Erikson Day. I call upon all Americans to
observe this day with appropriate ceremonies,
activities, and programs to honor our rich Nordic-
American heritage.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
seventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two
thousand four, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and twenty-ninth.

(Presidential Sig.)B